Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has urged his players to focus on one match at a time as the Soweto giants prepare for a demanding 17-day schedule that includes a CAF Confederation Cup trip to Zambia.

Amakhosi returns to Betway Premiership action tonight against Stellenbosch FC at FNB Stadium before travelling to Ndola for their continental assignment against Red Arrows.

Da Cruz says the three-week break caused by FIFA-sanctioned international fixtures provided the squad with valuable rest and an opportunity to work on key areas of their game ahead of a busy October schedule.

Chiefs are scheduled to play five matches in 17 days across the Betway Premiership, CAF Confederation Cup and Carling Knockout, with the highly anticipated Soweto Derby also on the calendar.

“We are happy to be back on the field and look forward to an intense month that includes travel to Zambia and Durban. But it’s important to focus on one game at a time,” Da Cruz said.

The coach also highlighted the significance of the month for club chairman Dr Kaizer Motaung, who celebrates his birthday this week, saying the team would be looking to deliver positive performances as a fitting gift.

“We must make sure we show up and give him the best birthday present by performing well in the upcoming games, starting with Tuesday’s match against Stellenbosch,” he said.

Da Cruz acknowledged that the encounter against Stellenbosch would be challenging, with both sides seeking maximum points.

“We know it’s not going to be an easy match because they want the three points as much as we do. We have worked hard as a team and planned thoroughly for this match against Stellenbosch,” he added.

Kaizer Chiefs head into the match fourth on the league table with 13 points from seven games, while Stellenbosch occupy seventh position with eight points from the same number of matches.

The match kicks off at 19:30 at FNB Stadium, with Chiefs then turning their attention to Saturday’s CAF Confederation Cup clash against Red Arrows in Ndola.